Jumbo Glacier Ski Resort Approved

By DH Vancouver Staff, DH Vancouver StaffMar 20, 2012 12:52 pm

Despite immense opposition and the impact it will have on grizzlies the Province (after two decades) has approved the Jumbo Glacier Resort Master Development Agreement, which allows the resort to proceed. The development will inject 1 billion dollars into the economy and provide a stimulus to the provincial economy. The luxury all season resort will contain thousands of beds and accommodate up to 700,000 visitors. See the official press release from the ministry below:

Glacier Resorts Ltd. received an Environmental Assessment Certificate for Jumbo Glacier Resort in 2004, which included 195 commitments to mitigate environmental impacts. The resort master plan was approved in 2007. The Minister of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations will pursue the establishment of a large wildlife management area to protect Grizzly bear habitat.

The resort could be North America’s only year-round, glacier-based ski resort. The resort will be in the Purcell Mountains, 57 km west of Invermere, on the site of an old sawmill. The completed ski resort will feature up to 23 lifts, a 3,000 metre-high gondola and spectacular world-class views.

“After more than 20 years of comprehensive and exhaustive reviews, it was time to make a decision. I approved Jumbo Glacier Resort’s Master Development Agreement after reviewing all of the relevant documentation, and meeting with both First Nations and the proponent.”

Bill Bennett, MLA for Kootenay East –

“This project has, for over 20 years, divided Kootenay communities. I am grateful for a final decision. I thank the Minister for making it and Premier Christy Clark for creating an environment where tough decisions can be made. No matter which side of the debate you’re on, the majority of folks in the East Kootenay will be relieved by the certainty.”

Rose-Marie Regitnig, president, Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce –
“The Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce is pleased that a decision around Jumbo Glacier Resort has finally been made. We believe that over 20 years of indecision by three different governments was negatively impacting our communities. While we recognize that not all individuals will be pleased with the decision we do look forward to working with our members on the opportunities that this decision will present. It is our objective to help our members grow and develop their businesses in both an economically and environmentally sustainable manner.”

Quick Facts:

· The minister approved the Master Development Agreement under the Land Act and Ministry of Lands, Parks and Housing Act.
· The Master Development Agreement is an agreement between the project proponent and the Province for development of provincial Crown land under the All Seasons Resort Policy.
· The Master Development Agreement contains all of the terms and conditions under which the resort can be developed, as well as outlining events of default, insurance requirements, fees to be paid and terms of renewal.
· The proponent has requested that Jumbo Glacier Resort be designated a resort municipality. The Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development will review this application now that the Master Development Agreement has been approved.
· The up-to-$900 million in private capital investment could create an estimated 750 permanent, direct jobs upon completion and provide 3,750 person years of construction employment.
· The Shuswap Indian Band has a benefits agreement with Glacier Resorts Ltd.